Alleva Dairy is saying arrivederci to New Yorkers — not by choice — and planning to set up shop in Bergen County.

Promoted as the oldest cheese shop in America, the store at Grand St. and Mulberry St. in Little Italy officially closed its doors this month.

The 130-year-old shop had been struggling since the start of the pandemic. Several months ago, the owner launched a GoFundMe to keep its doors open, but the campaign brought in just a fraction of the $35,000 goal.

Alleva Dairy fell behind on its rent and couldn't catch up. According to multiple news outlets, owner Karen King reached an agreement with the landlord that forgave her debt but forced her to close up shop.

"I am so thankful for the support I have received from my devoted customers, neighbors, the news media and strangers from across the country," King said.

Alleva Dairy is moving from New York to Lyndhurst. (Google Maps)
Alleva Dairy is moving from New York to Lyndhurst. (Google Maps)
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But the name and operation aren't done for good. King told the New York Post that, thanks to the generosity of a developer, Alleva Dairy will be opening an even bigger location in New Jersey.

Her new 3,700-square-foot store will open along Polito Ave. in Lyndhurst.

"Today marks a new chapter in the history of my beloved cheese store," King said on Wednesday. "One thing is certain, Alleva Dairy will continue and will be bigger and better than before.”

If all goes as planned, the New Jersey location should open in August.

Dino Flammia is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at dino.flammia@townsquaremedia.com

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